Why Did the Vikings Use Such Large Axes in Combat?
A good sword in Medieval times could cost the combined loot of a good raid, just to buy it. Even if you were sufficiently wealthy, it made more sense for a Northman to have a seax, or a knife that could actually stab, than a sword. This led to a practical question: why did the Vikings prefer large axes over swords in combat?
The Cost of a Good Sword
A sword required a lot more metal than an axe. A typical Viking needed to provide their own equipment. He wasn't given weapons from the Jarl or anyone else. A suit of mail could cost roughly a farm's worth of metal and time to make. If a Viking was very lucky, he might have a spear, a backup or two, a shield or two, and a helmet to protect his head.
The body was protected by the shield wall and multiple layers of linen tunics. For additional weapons, he would usually have an axe and a seax, or knife. In the heat of battle, even a spear might be left at your side.
Versatility and Practicality of Axes
One reason for the prevalence of axes was their versatility. They could be used both as weapons and tools. You didn't need to sharpen the head to make it lethal. Maces and clubs were also effective, and an axe was easier to repair compared to a sword. The head of the axe could be replaced, whereas a sword required more extensive repair.
Effectiveness and Margin of Error
The effectiveness of large axes in combat cannot be overlooked. For the majority of the people the Vikings were fighting, they were unarmored or lightly armored. A larger, thinner blade could cut soft targets just as well as a smaller, thicker one. This is the effectiveness part. The margin of error part is that the longer blade gives you a larger hit percentage essentially.
An axe with a 4-inch blade gives you a 4-inch long bit to hit something with. When that 'something' is moving and fighting back, it's harder to get the sharp bit to connect. With a longer blade, you have a longer area to hit with, making it easier to get a hit. The added bonus is the bearded axes used by the Vikings. If you overswing, it's not the handle that hits the target, but the sharp bit!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vikings preferred large axes because they were both practical and effective. They were versatile, cost-effective, and made for better weapons against their adversaries. So, the next time you see a Viking wielding a large axe, remember the reasons behind this tactical choice.